Wisdom Teeth

Why Should I Have My Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to rupture in the mouth. Wisdom teeth often need to be removed to prevent them from improperly, and often painfully, lodging within the mouth. Impacted teeth can take many positions in the jaw as they attempt to successfully erupt. If wisdom teeth have partially erupted, the opening around the teeth allows bacteria to grow and can cause infection. Their crowded position could cause an unwanted shift in the alignment of your teeth. The most severe problem occurs when tumors or cysts form around the impacted wisdom teeth, which can destruct the jawbone and healthy teeth. By removing impacted wisdom teeth, these problems can usually be resolved or avoided altogether. We recommend early removal of problematic wisdom teeth to avoid future problems.

In some instances, wisdom teeth can grow in with no damage or problems. In these situations, extraction is not necessary.

Oral Examination

With an oral examination and X-Rays, your oral surgeon can determine the placement of the wisdom teeth and predict if there are any present or future problems. Patients are usually first evaluated in the mid-teenage years by their dentist, orthodontist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Removal

In most cases, wisdom teeth removal is performed under local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia) or IV sedation. Your options and their surgical risks will be discussed with you before the procedure is performed. Your comfort and ease of mind is our priority throughout the procedure. Once the teeth are removed, the gums will be sutured. To control bleeding, gauze will be placed on the treatment area. You will rest under our supervision until you are ready to be taken home by a responsible adult. Once discharged, you will be given a postoperative kit that includes instructions, a prescription for pain medication, antibiotics and a follow-up appointment in one week to have the sutures removed.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the procedure, do not hesitate to call our office.